UAE-based Emirates Airline has signed a $18bn contract with Boeing for the purchase of 50 777-300ER aircraft.

The airline has an option to buy another 20 twin-aisle commercial jets as part of the order, if the company exercises the options, with the order value increasing to $26bn.

The 777-300ER is a twin-engine, long-haul aircraft offering a range of 7,930nm (14,685km) and seats 365 passengers.

Emirates already owns 94 777s through direct purchase and lease, and has additional unfilled orders for a further 41 777-300ERs.